Does The 31 October Wood Burner Deadline Affect You?

In order to replace a wood burner older than 15 years old with a low emission wood burner in a Clean Air Zone, you must have a building consent issued by 31 October 2017.  After that, your only option may be an ultra-low emission wood burner.

How do I find out if the deadline may affect me?

This is a 3 step process. 

First, find out if your property is in a Clean Air Zone.  You can do that by clicking here.  If your property is not in a Clean Air Zone, the deadline does not affect you, and you can continue using your current wood burner.

If your property is in a Clean Air Zone, the second step is to find out if your wood burner is on the low emission or ultra-low emission list.  You can do that by clicking here.  If your wood burner is not on the list, it is considered an ‘older style burner’.

The last step is to check the rules for your area.  There are different rules depending on where in Canterbury your property is located, and also the size of the section.  You can check these rules by clicking here.

ECan have also set up an online tool to see if the deadline may affect your property.  Prior to using this tool, you will need to know if your property is in a Clean Air Zone, whether your wood burner is older than 15 years, and the style of wood burner (low emission etc).  To use the online tool click here.

Is there any benefit in obtaining the building consent for a low emission wood burner prior to 31 October?

Yes. The low emission wood burners are less expensive to purchase and install than the ultra-low emission wood burners.  However, the ultra-low emission wood burners may be cheaper to use.

I am thinking of selling my house soon, should I install a low emission wood burner?

Some purchasers have recently been requesting reductions in the purchase price where a property has an older style burner that will need replacing in the immediate future. You will need to assess this on a case by case basis and we recommend having an early conversation with your Saunders Robinson Brown legal advisor.

How do I start the building consent process for a low emission wood burner?

You should contact your local Council to check the process and their fees and they should be able to direct you to companies that install approved wood burners.

The above information is of a general nature only. You should contact our firm for advice relating to your specific circumstances.